Medical care is very expensive in the United States, and consequently, insurance is a necessity, not a luxury. Especially for students from another country, study abroad insurance is a confusing yet essential part of American life. Knowledge is power, and a student must know the basics of how student insurance works.

Most colleges and universities require that a student be adequately insured when enrolling as a full-time student. Usually, colleges and universities have a basic student insurance plan in place that students are enrolled in by default. Students can opt out of the college-sponsored plan by providing proof that they have other comparable health insurance coverage.

Remember that students who are U.S. citizens might already have existing insurance plans through their parents plans. You can choose either the college-sponsored international student insurance plan or an 'outside' plan with equal or better coverage. Remember to check the details of your college-sponsored plan; it is sometimes more expensive and offers little flexibility in terms of options.

If you opt for a study abroad insurance outside the college, you can either contact an agent, or search for plans on the Internet. Several comparison sites help you to compare the prices and coverage of plans in a relaxed environment, so that you can make the best decision for you.

You must also consider coverage for your dependents. They cannot be insured under a student insurance plan unless you are the primary plan holder. However, they can be covered under other short-term insurance plans.

If an international student decides to purchase outside international student health insurance, the college may require a waiver form to be filled. Most colleges specify criteria for outside insurance to be considered comparable to their plan. With a simple phone call, most online insurance Web sites will be able to guide and suggest insurance products that meet the criteria.

Typical coverage that an international student health insurance plan provides include inpatient and outpatient treatment, prescription medicines, maternity, mental health, sports injuries, emergency medical evacuation, accidental death and dismemberment, and repatriation of remains.

International student health insurance is only valid until the plan holder remains a full-time student. Coverage may not extend to the Optional Practical Training period after graduation. Short-term insurance plans provide good coverage for such stop-gap insurance needs.

Dan Miller often writes about international student insurance.

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